I really appreciate that.
The minister mentioned that the arts contribute $130 billion to the Canadian economy. We have many flagship organizations in B.C. In the Lower Mainland, we call them the “G8”. They include the Vancouver Symphony Orchestra, the Vancouver Art Gallery, Bard on the Beach, the Arts Club Theatre Company and Arts Umbrella. These extraordinary institutions are central to our Canadian identity.
Is the department able to ensure that predictable and sustainable core operating support happens, so that these institutions remain globally competitive?